The payroll and business communities are mourning the passing of Levi Meeske, CPP, a dedicated professional whose intelligence, generosity, and passion for his field left an enduring legacy in Atlanta and beyond.
Known for his deep expertise, mentorship, and unwavering enthusiasm, Levi’s loss is profoundly felt among colleagues, friends, and the many individuals he inspired throughout his remarkable career.
Levi’s journey in payroll began in September 2001, when he accepted a position that introduced him to a world he would soon come to master. Equipped with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science from Midland Lutheran College in Fremont, Nebraska, Levi entered the profession with a curiosity to learn and a drive to excel.
Over the next two decades, he rose through the ranks — from payroll clerk to administrator, supervisor, and eventually manager — working across diverse industries including manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare.
His professional path was defined by integrity, precision, and a desire to improve every process he touched. Levi was instrumental in advancing compliance standards, optimizing payroll efficiency, and fostering innovation through technology and documentation.
His influence extended far beyond his workplace through his long and active involvement with the APA Atlanta Chapter, where he held several leadership roles — including President, Government Liaison Officer, and Chair of the Georgia Statewide Payroll Conference.
After earning his Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) credential in 2007, Levi became a mentor to others, teaching in the CPP/FPC Study Groups for many years.
His contributions to the national payroll community were equally remarkable. Levi served on the APA’s National Speaker’s Bureau and the CPP Certification Board, sharing his knowledge generously with professionals across the country.
He was also part of PAYTECH’s Board of Contributing Writers, the Regional Board of Advisors, and several key committees — including the Strategic Payroll Leadership Task Force (SPLTF), Government Relations Task Force (GRTF), and Emerging Technologies Subcommittee. In addition, he shared his expertise as an instructor for PayTrain Mastery at Kennesaw State University.
Beyond his professional life, Levi was admired for his warmth, humor, and creativity. He enjoyed puzzles, coin collecting, and cruising the Caribbean, but above all, he treasured time spent with his loving family. His colleagues often remarked that his joy for life was contagious — he had an unmatched ability to make people feel valued, welcomed, and inspired.
Fittingly, the theme for the 2025 Georgia Statewide Payroll Conference — “What It Takes to Pay” — was created by Levi Meeske. Reflecting his innovative spirit, the theme encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and appreciation for the puzzle-solving nature of payroll work. It stands as one of his many professional legacies.
A fellow PayrollOrg member shared,
“We lost one of those rare souls this week. Levi’s wit, love for people, and ability to welcome everyone with open arms will be deeply missed. There will forever be a missing link at payroll events.”
The APA Atlanta Chapter expressed its sorrow, writing,
“Levi’s loyalty, dedication, wisdom, and camaraderie left an enduring impact on our chapter and on all who knew him. His presence enriched our work and our lives. His legacy will continue to inspire us.”
Levi Meeske’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the payroll community, but his mentorship, innovation, and kindness will continue to guide those who follow in his footsteps. His light, laughter, and leadership will be remembered always.
